RORY Stewart MP has called for local schools to get their pupils learning about money.

It is part of a charity’s new campaign to help improve the financial capability of young people.

Every primary and secondary school in the Penrith and the Border are has been sent 'Get Money Smart' posters and teaching materials.

It is part of a campaign by national charity PFEG (Personal Finance Education Group).

It wants to get children talking about money in the classroom.

The charity’s posters are for children aged between 7 and 16 – are designed to encourage classroom discussions about things children can do to learn more about money.

Ideas for different ages include checking your change, estimating the cost of a weekly shop, comparing mobile phone tariffs and planning and budgeting for a trip.

Schools are being encouraged to hold discussions with their pupils over four things the posters suggest they can do to learn about money.

The move follows news that after years of campaigning by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Financial Education for Young People, and finance guru Martin Lewis, that financial education will be taught in secondary schools as part of the national curriculum from September 2014.

Rory Stewart said: “I strongly support any initiative that gives our children the tools to deal with finance, and to manage their finances in a sensible way.

"Too often, children grow up and leave home knowing very little about the basics of sound financial management: things like making savings in small ways in order to increase capital for bigger purchases, or budgeting ahead of time.”

Tracey Bleakley, chief executive of PFEG, said: “We are thrilled to have the support of Rory Stewart for this free new scheme for primary and secondary schools in Penrith and The Border. I hope all local schools will seize the opportunity to use their Get Money Smart posters to bring money to life in the classroom."